After the ceremonial start in Torino, the torch of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games continues its symbolic journey - across Germany, past historic landmarks, iconic sporting locations and with the support of outstanding personalities.
Stage 2: Munich
The first stage after Italy was Munich, where the torch was set against the impressive backdrop of the Frauenkirche and in the Olympic Park - a place that has been synonymous with sporting excellence since the 1972 Olympic Games.
Stage 3: Stuttgart
In Stuttgart, the torch lit up the vibrant Schlossplatz, proudly carried by beach volleyball star Karla Borger. The journey continued to the iconic Staatsgalerie, where athletics talent Pamela Emmerich took up the flame, and on to the Stuttgart Olympic Training Centre, with Elli Seitz, Rosina Schneider, and Toni Skrzypek all adding their energy to the relay. Rising rhythmic gymnastics star Margarita Kolosov rounded off the day, shining as a powerful symbol of excellence in student sport.
Stage 4: Heidelberg
The relay rolled on to Heidelberg, where the torch met the water once more atop the picturesque Old Bridge spanning the Neckar. With the majestic Heidelberg Castle rising in the background, the flame passed through a setting that embodies tradition, knowledge, and history like few others.
Stage 5: Frankfurt
In Frankfurt, the torch took centre stage at the iconic Alte Oper, presented by fencer and athletes' voice Max Hartung. From a stunning skyline vantage point, Ben Schenk carried the flame high, while at the historic St Paul’s Church, Domitila Barros and two young torchbearers from Sportjugend Hessen made a powerful statement for diversity and unity during the launch of the International Weeks against Racism.
Stage 6: Cologne
Cologne received the torch in front of the impressive backdrop of Cologne Cathedral and at the Hohenzollern Bridge, where former national team player Tabea Kemme carried the torch and embraced the spirit of the FISU Games.
Stage 7: Hamburg
The torch then made a dazzling sweep past Hamburg’s striking Elbphilharmonie and wound its way through the atmospheric Speicherstadt, before gliding along the Alster and heading north towards Lübeck. For a chance to be part of the action, torchbearers had the unique opportunity to apply via our Instagram page.
Stage 8: Lübeck
Lübeck marked the northernmost stop on the national route, where the torch swept past the iconic Holsten Gate and through the enchanting historic city centre. Those eager to take part in this unforgettable moment had the chance to apply online and join the journey.
Stage 9: Erfurt
Erfurt University Sport staged a rousing Flame Relay across the city on 24 April - a run full of energy, community and sporting charisma. Paraathlete Hubert Hager (3x3 wheelchair basketball) kicked off the event at the University of Erfurt before handing over the torch to track and field athlete Marlene Körner. Runners from the Health and Medical University carried the torch across the picturesque Krämerbrücke bridge to Erfurt Town Hall. There, Lord Mayor Andreas Horn not only greeted the flame, but also became a torchbearer himself and proudly led the group to the next stage destination. After a short photo stop, they continued on to iba, where volleyball player Mia Strauß and former long jumper Konstantin Krause took over the baton. Roman Freitag and Ulf Ströde carried the flame for Erfurt University of Applied Sciences - a strong sign of the enthusiasm of Erfurt University Sports.
